(Kilimanjaro) – Air France made a historic return to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) on November 20, 2024, marking the airline’s first flight to the airport in 28 years. The airline now operates three flights per week between KIA and France’s Charles de Gaulle Airport using its new Airbus A350-900WXB.
The resumption of Air France services comes at a time when tourist arrivals in Tanzania are growing. The number of tourists entering through KIA has risen from 900,000 to over one million, highlighting the country’s increasing popularity as a travel destination.
Rehema Myeya, the Director of KIA, officially announced the return of Air France during the launch of the air travel safety week at the airport on December 17, 2024. Myeya noted that the return of Air France services to KIA underscores the airport’s rising importance as a hub for international travel to Tanzania.
Air France’s return is expected to boost tourism in the Kilimanjaro region, providing easier access for European tourists seeking to visit iconic destinations such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, and Zanzibar.
For Air France, the resumption of flights to KIA is part of its broader strategy to expand its network and increase connectivity to Africa. The airline’s new Airbus A350, a state-of-the-art long-haul aircraft, ensures a comfortable and efficient flight experience for passengers traveling between Tanzania and France.
With the growing number of international airlines resuming or launching new routes to Tanzania, the country is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for both tourists and business travelers. Air France’s decision to return to KIA also reflects confidence in Tanzania’s tourism and aviation sectors.
Air France Flight Details
| Flight Route | Aircraft Type | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| KIA – Charles de Gaulle, France | Airbus A350-900WXB | Three times a week |
The return of Air France to KIA is expected to further increase Tanzania’s visibility on the global tourism map, providing direct access to one of Europe’s busiest airports. It is also expected to strengthen Tanzania’s position as a key hub for international tourism in East Africa.
The Kilimanjaro region, home to KIA, is now poised to benefit significantly from increased air traffic, not just in terms of tourism but also for trade and investment opportunities.
